§ 8. Mr. R. J. Taylorasked the Minister of Labour what are the conditions associated with the registration of building trade workers at present employed in munition works; whether it is intended to direct such labour after registration; and, if so, what are the conditions associated with such direction.
§ Mr. ButlerThe workers required to register on 16th June are men between the ages of 18 and 60 who have had a total period of 12 months' employment in the building or civil engineering industry since January, 1935, and are now employed elsewhere. I have every hope 1749 that experienced workers will welcome this opportunity of returning to the building and civil engineering industries for work in connection with housing and other essential construction. In some cases, however, it may be necessary in the last resort to direct such men to essential work of the highest urgency. If this is done there will be the usual right of appeal on grounds of hardship.
Viscountess AstorAs there are thousands of women working on munitions, will they be allowed to go into the building trade?
§ Mr. ButlerThis is a particular Question referring to the registration of previous building workers. Unless they were covered by that definition they would not be included in this plan.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallMay we take it that the changes visualised will not abrogate the terms of the recent Statutory Rule and Order dealing with the release of men over 51?
§ Mr. ButlerI think we must observe the Orders of which the House has cognisance.
9. Mr. Graham Whiteasked the Minister of Labour whether the arrangements for registration of former workers in the building and civil engineering industries will apply also to similar workers serving in the Forces.
§ Mr. ButlerNo, Sir, the pre-enlistment occupation of building trade workers in the Forces is already recorded in their Service documents.